PG Cert Theological Studies (Worship Studies focus)

PG Cert.

The PG Cert in Theological Studies (Worship Studies focus) enables students to begin exploring the relationship between theology and worship at postgraduate level. 

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Programme Overview

Providing a unique option for those interested in the Theological Studies programme at PG Certificate level, but with a specific focus on Worship studies, this course combines two modules: Sources and Methods in Theology and Issues in Contemporary Christian Worship, to enable students to critically examine the ways we practice worship within a robust theological framework. 

This qualification will equip students in and for their ministry contexts, as well as prepare them for further postgraduate study.

To apply for this PG Cert, please apply for the MA Theological Studies (tick PG Cert), and add a note in your application that you are interested in this Worship Studies option. 


Key Information

Applications for the PG Cert Theological Studies (Worship Studies focus) programme is studied part-time for two semesters, ending in May 2027.  

Online: The PG Cert Theological Studies (Worship Studies focus) programme can be studied fully online, which means that you will study entirely through LST’s Virtual Learning Environment. There is no requirement to come on campus at any point and online study means that the teaching material will be provided entirely through the School’s Virtual Learning Environment and interaction with fellow students and the tutor will occur through interactive forum discussions. 

Mixed Mode: ‘Mixed mode’ means that students will study up to 60 credits onsite at LST with their other credits studied online, via LST’s Virtual Learning Environment. 

The normal entry requirements for this programme are a first degree in theology (2:2) or a previous degree in another discipline. 

However, the Programme Leader has discretion to consider other entry qualifications, so if your background does not conform to these requirements, please contact the Programme Leader to discuss a possible way forward. 

Additionally, those applicants from a non-majority English-speaking country will be required to demonstrate the necessary English language ability (IELTS Level 7). 

Students are expected to commit around 20 hours a week to study for the PG Cert in Theological Studies. 

Full-Time students on the MA Theological studies programme would complete their MA in 12 months and are expected to commit around 40 hours per week to study. 

For Full-time study, we strongly recommend that you have a theology or religious studies degree. Part-Time students do their MA programme in 24 or 48 months and are expected to commit around 20 hours per week to study. 

Part-time study is normally engaged on LST’s virtual learning environment. Students study either in blended mode or online mode. 

‘Blended mode’ means that students will study up to 60 credits onsite at LST with their other credits studied online. ‘Online mode’ means that students will study entirely through LST’s virtual Learning Environment. 

This PG Cert is ideally suited for:

  • Worship leaders, pastors and church leaders 
  • Church musicians 
  • Anyone considering Worship Studies at postgraduate level.  

What you will study

Sources and Methods in Theology (40 credits)  

The module aims to introduce students to the sources and methods in theology so that students can begin to develop their own construction of a theological method that can be used in various ways throughout the programme. Furthermore, students will enter into dialogue with other theological methods and traditions in order to develop critical knowledge, skills and understanding that can inform their own developing method.

Issues in Contemporary Christian Worship (20 credits) 

The module aims to enable students to apply critically their understanding of worship to the study of specific issues, both theoretical and practical, relating to worship in its contemporary context; analyse and appraise contemporary trends in worship and current debates in this field of study; and develop reflective skills that equip them to move between theory and practice in evaluating their experiences of corporate worship.

The MA Theological Studies programme is quality assured by Middlesex University and you will receive a Middlesex award upon completion.
Programme Documents:
Programme Specification
Module Narratives
Academic Regulations
Fees and Funding
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Theological Studies Student Testimonials:

The Issues in Contemporary Worship Module offers a fascinating “look behind the curtain” of today’s worship landscape, engaging thoughtfully with challenging topics such as consumerism, the growing influence of technology, lament, and the vital role of congregational singing in our corporate worship. It ultimately inspired me to write my dissertation on the subconscious expectations placed on contemporary worship leaders and I thoroughly enjoyed the module. I’d highly recommend taking it! - Hannah Hodges, chair of the trustees for Engage Worship

Julie Robb
Programme Leader

Whether the student is studying the MA Biblical Studies or MA Theological Studies, my hope is that they will grow spiritually and develop in the varied ministries that God has called or will call students into. I want to equip students with the tools to be able to reflect upon and to enable others to reflect upon the hard questions that we all ask, whether Christian or non-Christian.

Read Julie's Bio